[2026] A Collection of Graduation Songs Recommended for Gen Z [A Page of Youth]

Homeward Road in MarchHirai Dai

Dai Hirai / The Way Home in March (Lyric Video)

In the season when spring cherry blossoms are in full bloom, Dai Hirai’s music truly touches the heart.

It beautifully sings of the sadness of graduation and parting, as well as the hope for new beginnings, gently enveloping listeners.

Set to the tender tones of piano and strings, the lyrics—woven with cherished memories and dreams for the future—leave a lasting impression.

Released in February 2022, this song is also included on the album “LOVE+PEACE.” It’s perfect for moments like graduation and entrance ceremonies.

With a heartwarming melody that feels like a send-off to those embarking on a new chapter, it resonates deeply.

Gazing up, the sky is blueHata Motohiro

Motohiro Hata / Aogeba Aozora Music Video

This work beautifully portrays graduation as a milestone in life.

Motohiro Hata’s clear, translucent voice captures both the sadness of parting and the hope of a new beginning in full.

Released in March 2019, it garnered attention as the theme song for a SoftBank TV commercial.

While cherishing past memories, this piece gives you the courage to take a step toward the future.

It’s a song I hope those embarking on a new chapter will listen to as spring arrives.

Its heartfelt melody and lyrics will surely give you a gentle push forward.

Because we’re friends.Ochiai Wataru

Wataru Ochiai – Because We’re Friends (Music Video)

This song gently sings about memories and farewells with dear friends, carried by a warm, heartfelt vocal.

Wataru Ochiai’s comforting voice resonates, bringing to mind scenes from school days and moments of parting.

Set to a ballad-style melody, it carefully expresses the importance of friendship and feelings of gratitude, and was released in February 2022.

A simple arrangement centered on piano and acoustic guitar further highlights the emotional depth of the lyrics.

It’s recommended not only for those facing graduation or goodbyes, but also for anyone who wants to fondly recall their school-day friends.

The song has gained buzz on social media and continues to be cherished as an anthem of youth.

Cherry blossom seasonEXILE ATSUSHI

EXILE ATSUSHI / “Cherry Blossom Season” MV

Atsushi, known for his sweet singing voice, delivers a graduation-themed ballad.

Set against gentle piano and string arrangements, the song weaves together the sorrow of parting and the hope for the future, becoming a moving piece that sends memories of youth rushing back.

Included on the album “Love Ballade,” released in December 2014, it was issued as a single the following February.

It was also selected as the set piece for the junior high division of NHK’s National School Music Competition, resonating deeply with many students.

It’s a heartwarming number recommended not only for those about to graduate, but also for anyone who has experienced a farewell with someone dear.

The meaning of goodbyeNogizaka 46

Nogizaka46 'The Meaning of Goodbye'

Nogizaka46’s sixth single paints a poignant scene of parting.

Released in November 2016, it’s known for featuring Nanami Hashimoto as the center.

With its memorable piano lines and melody, the song sings about how farewells bring life changes and highlight the importance of new encounters.

Many listeners will likely relate to the parting words exchanged beneath the elevated tracks.

Issued in a first-press limited CD+DVD edition and a regular edition, it sold over 680,000 copies.

Becoming Nogizaka46’s first million seller, this moving pop tune is one to hear for anyone facing graduation or a new departure.

I’m glad I met you.Inoue Sonoko

Sonoko Inoue – “I’m Glad I Met You” (short ver.)

A song by singer-songwriter Sonoko Inoue that colors the moment of taking a new step forward along with memories of youth.

Chosen as the theme song for the drama “Sakura Saku,” it was released as a single in February 2016 and included on the March 2016 album “Hello.” With its gentle tone and lyrics themed around parting and new departures, it truly resonates.

Because it reflects Inoue’s own experiences as she approached high school graduation, the emotions feel very real.

It’s a piece we hope students facing graduation and anyone experiencing a farewell with someone important will listen to.

lightly; nimbly; flutteringlyŌhara Sakurako

lightly; nimbly; flutteringly

A single by Sakurako Ohara that you’ll want to listen to when cherry blossoms are in the air.

Released in March 2017 as the theme song for the film “Cheer☆Dance,” it reached No.

7 on the weekly Oricon chart.

The refreshing melody crafted by Seiji Kameda blends beautifully with Ohara’s clear, translucent vocals.

The lyrics gently embrace the farewells and new encounters that come with the arrival of spring, offering a soft push to those graduating.

The piano-centered arrangement is also captivating, making it a song that gives you the courage to take a new step forward.

A heartwarming number perfect for the spring season.